What is Hassan Ayariga Up To? Calls Mount for Gov’t to Caution Him Over Igbo Cultural Rights in Ghana
Concerns are growing over recent actions by politician Hassan Ayariga, who has reportedly sought to interfere with the right of the Igbo community in Ghana to celebrate and promote their culture. Many observers are questioning what exactly Ayariga hopes to achieve with such a move, and whether he has the moral or legal authority to attempt to stop a recognized community from freely expressing its heritage.
Civil society voices have been quick to condemn his actions, describing them as divisive, intolerant, and an affront to Ghana’s reputation as a multicultural and democratic nation. Ghana has long prided itself on being a haven of peace, where diverse ethnic and cultural groups coexist and celebrate one another. Any attempt to restrict this freedom, they warn, risks sowing unnecessary tension.
Ghanaians in many countries such as the United States, the UK, Germany, Ireland, and others celebrate their culture without any interference from the citizens of those nations. Observers argue that the same standard should apply in Ghana, where inclusivity and tolerance are supposed to define the national character.
Analysts argue that Ayariga’s behavior undermines the very principles of freedom of association and cultural expression enshrined in Ghana’s Constitution. The Igbo people, like other communities in Ghana, contribute significantly to the country’s economy, social fabric, and cultural diversity. Preventing them from celebrating their traditions not only disrespects their identity but also threatens the broader values of unity and inclusivity.
Several opinion leaders have therefore called on the Government of Ghana and the security agencies to take swift action by calling Hassan Ayariga to order. They insist that no individual, regardless of political status, should be allowed to usurp the law or intimidate communities lawfully expressing their culture.
“Ghana is a democratic state, not a one-man fiefdom,” one elder remarked. “The Igbo have every right to celebrate their heritage, just as any Ghanaian community does. Attempts to stifle them must be resisted.”
The call is now loud and clear: if Ayariga is not reined in, his actions could embolden others to target cultural minorities, setting a dangerous precedent. At a time when Ghana seeks to strengthen regional ties and preserve its peace, there is no place for intolerance or attempts to silence cultural expression.
